From the FDA Drug Label
Directions for itching of skin irritation, inflammation, and rashes: adults and children 2 years of age and older: apply to affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily For external anal and genital itching, adults: when practical, clean the affected area with mild soap and warm water and rinse thoroughly gently dry by patting or blotting with toilet tissue or a soft cloth before applying apply to affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily
The treatment for a penile shaft rash is to apply hydrocortisone to the affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily. Before applying, clean the area with mild soap and warm water, and gently dry by patting or blotting with toilet tissue or a soft cloth 1.
- Children under 2 years of age and children under 12 years of age should ask a doctor before using hydrocortisone for a penile shaft rash.
- If rectal bleeding occurs, or if the condition worsens, symptoms persist for more than 7 days, or clear up and occur again within a few days, stop use and ask a doctor 1.
From the Research
The treatment for a penile shaft rash depends on its cause, but often includes topical corticosteroids like hydrocortisone 1% cream applied twice daily for 7-10 days to reduce inflammation and itching, as supported by the most recent evidence 2. When considering the treatment for a penile shaft rash, it's essential to identify the underlying cause, which could range from fungal infections, bacterial infections, contact dermatitis, to sexually transmitted infections.
- For fungal infections like jock itch, antifungal creams such as clotrimazole 1% or miconazole applied twice daily for 1-2 weeks are effective, as they directly target the fungal pathogens.
- Bacterial infections may require antibacterial ointments like mupirocin 2% applied three times daily for 7-10 days, which help in eliminating the bacterial cause.
- If the rash is due to contact dermatitis, identifying and avoiding the irritant is crucial, while using mild, fragrance-free soaps and keeping the area clean and dry can help in managing the condition, as discussed in the context of allergens in skin products 2.
- For sexually transmitted infections causing rashes, specific antibiotics or antivirals prescribed by a healthcare provider are necessary, highlighting the importance of professional diagnosis. During treatment, avoiding scratching, wearing loose cotton underwear, and maintaining good hygiene are recommended practices to prevent further irritation and promote healing. If the rash persists beyond two weeks, worsens, or is accompanied by fever, discharge, or severe pain, seeking medical attention promptly is advised, as these symptoms may indicate a more serious condition requiring prescription-strength medications or different treatment approaches, as seen in cases of severe infections 3.